Mrs. Ford was usually a calm and composed person.
So why was she so flustered now?
Callie Norris put down what she was doing and asked, "Mrs. Ford, what's wrong?"
Mrs. Ford handed her the phone. "Look at this."
Callie's eyes fell on the phone screen. It was a post about the incident that happened earlier that morning. The post had been edited to make her look like a terrible person.
She didn't need to think hard to know who was behind this!
Gianna's antics that morning were all for this moment, weren't they?
With the internet being so advanced, it was easy to start an online smear campaign. All it took was some money to buy traffic, and people would believe anything they saw without questioning the truth.
Some people, with their twisted views, could even drive a good person to despair.
She remembered a news story she had read recently. A girl had asked a delivery guy to bring groceries to her father.
The girl was grateful for the delivery guy's help and tried to give him a tip, but he refused, probably out of the goodness of his heart. Feeling bad, the girl then added $20 worth of credit to his phone as a thank-you.
But the internet was full of criticism, saying the amount was too little.
What should have been a heart warming story of kindness and gratitude turned into a tragedy because of online bullying.
A girl couldn't take the cyber bullying anymore and ended her life.
It shows that these invisible killers online are worse than executioners!
This must be Gianna's main goal!
To use public opinion to drown her in the spit of netizens.
But she wasn't someone with a fragile heart.
She wouldn't let something like this drive her life to death.
She would take good care of herself.
"What kind of people are these? It's outrageous! How can they say such horrible things, even cursing someone to die?" Mrs. Ford fumed.
The comments under the video were almost unanimously attacking Callie.
Mrs. Ford was furious just looking at them.
Callie took a moment to calm herself down and smiled at Mrs. Ford, "Don't mind them. It's not true anyway. I know in my heart whether I've done anything wrong. I have a clear conscience and nothing to fear."
For the sake of her child, she wouldn't let it bother her too much.
She gently touched her belly.
"But..." Mrs. Ford couldn't stand it.
Her eyes inadvertently fell on Callie's hand on her belly, and she asked, "Young Mistress, is your stomach bothering you?"
Callie Norris quickly removed her hand, "No, it's not."
"Recently, I've noticed you seem to have a bit of a belly. Have you gained some weight? But your face and arms don't seem to have changed," Mrs. Ford said, puzzled.
Callie quickly explained, "I gain weight in my belly first."
"By the way, Mrs. Ford, could you do me a favor?"
Mrs. Ford nodded, "What do you need? Just tell me."
Callie handed over the clothes she wanted to take with her. "Can you take these to the dry cleaners for me?"
"That's quite a lot to clean," Mrs. Ford remarked.
Callie nodded in agreement. She felt much better now. She needed to find a chance to leave.
If she waited any longer, her belly would grow, and it would be hard to hide.
Of course, she had to leave quietly. Without a trace, without leaving any clues.
That way, no one would be able to find her.
As Mrs. Ford packed up the clothes, she reminded Callie, "Don't go online to read those news articles about you. It'll just upset you."
Callie nodded, "I know." Mrs. Ford was truly a kind person. She genuinely cared for her.
If there was anything Callie would miss about this place, it would be Mrs. Ford.
She took a deep breath.
When Mrs. Ford returned from the dry cleaners, she mentioned that it would take five or six days to get the clothes back because there were so many.
Callie said it was fine and that she wasn't in a hurry to wear them.
...
Shane didn't come back that night.
Callie didn't mind. Without a job, she stayed at the villa, working part-time as an online consultant doctor while recuperating.
She didn't leave the house, didn't pay attention to the news, and didn't care about how things were progressing.
For several days, Shane didn't return.
Callie thought it was a good opportunity to escape, so she said to Mrs. Ford, "Give me the receipt for the clothes. I'll go pick them up."
"I can get them for you," Mrs. Ford offered.
Callie replied, "I want to get some fresh air. I'll bring them back."
In reality, she planned to take the clothes and leave for good.
Mrs. Ford handed her the receipt. Callie looked at Mrs. Ford and hugged her. "Mrs. Ford, I'll miss you so much."
Mrs. Ford laughed. "What are you talking about? It's not like we won't see each other again."
Callie couldn't explain, so she just smiled and left.
When she reached the dry cleaner, her phone rang. She stopped outside and answered it.
"Callie, do you still remember me?"
Callie thought for a moment before remembering, "Principal Lopez."
"Yes, it's me. You know my husband works in pharmaceutical research. His company is celebrating the success of a new drug, and they're having a party tonight. I have a solo dance teacher who got burned and can't perform. I thought of you because your dance skills are good enough for a solo performance..."
"Um..." Callie Norris interrupted, "I can't perform."
She was pregnant and couldn't wear high heels to dance.
Moreover, Latin dance was too passionate and energetic, and the costumes were tight-fitting. Her belly was already showing a bit.
Principal Lopez was silent for a moment. "I see."
"I'm really sorry," Callie said.
"I saw you play the piano for the students once during class. You were really good. How about a piano solo instead? It's not that I have to ask you, but the program is already set, and if we miss one act, it won't be enough. All the dance teachers have their own performances."
Principal Lopez sounded almost pleading.
Callie glanced at the laundromat and thought about how difficult it must have been to develop an anti-cancer drug. Now that they had succeeded, it was indeed worth celebrating.
She decided she could delay her departure by a day.
"Alright then," she agreed.
"Thank you, I won't let your help go unrewarded," Principal Lopez said with a smile.
Callie wasn't concerned about any benefits.
The main reason was that Principal Lopez and her husband were genuinely good people.
"Then at 8 pm, come to 109 Rejuvenation Road, Regen Pharm Research Center."
"Alright," she replied, then added, "Do I need to prepare anything?"
"No, just bring yourself," Principal Lopez assured her.
Callie didn't pick up her laundry today; she'd have to come back tomorrow. Since she was already out, she decided to take a walk.
However, someone recognized her and started pointing and whispering. She had no choice but to head back home. The power of the internet was undeniable!
Gianna had indeed caused her harm; she couldn't even walk down the street without being pointed at and insulted.
Mrs. Ford saw her return empty-handed and asked, "Where are the clothes?"
"There are still a couple of items that aren't ready yet. I'll get them next time," Callie replied with a smile.
At 8 pm sharp, she arrived at the designated place.
Principal Lopez had prepared an outfit for her performance.
It was a stunning gown.
It looked a bit like a wedding dress, with a large, puffy skirt that completely hid her stomach. The dress highlighted her slender neck, delicate collarbones, and graceful arms, showcasing her beautiful features.
Backstage, the makeup artist gave her a quick touch-up. Callie was naturally beautiful, with a fresh-faced charm. Heavy makeup would only diminish her natural allure.
She was the first to go on stage.
The opening act.
Originally, the event was supposed to start with a dance, but plans had changed.
The host began with an impassioned speech, followed by the president's address, and finally, the evening's program commenced.
Callie walked slowly onto the stage...
In the audience, Harrison sat next to Shane. "President Robinson, do you remember Miss Norris?"
Shane hadn't been interested at first, but after Harrison's nudge, he glanced up at the stage.
Under the spotlight sat a stunning figure at the piano.
He raised an eyebrow, genuinely surprised.
Surprised to see Callie Norris at this event.
Surprised she could play the piano.
Harrison said, "Miss Norris is quite talented. My wife told me she's also an excellent dancer."
Shane's gaze remained fixed on the stage.
Callie placed her slender fingers gently on the piano keys. Her body relaxed, and with a slight press of her fingertips, the first note rang out. The rhythm followed, smoothly and orderly, creating a beautiful melody...
Harrison, who knew nothing about piano, was eager to share his excitement with Shane. "I put so much effort into developing this drug. Without your significant investment, we couldn't have developed it so quickly."
Shane was here today because he was an investor.
He had equity and a say in decisions.
"Later, we need to discuss the pricing strategy. Do you have time to join the meeting the day after tomorrow?"
Shane had no interest in listening to his endless chatter.
His heart and eyes were all focused on the stage.
Harrison didn't appreciate it, but Shane knew that Callie was playing a famous piece, "Canon in D." It was perfect for today's occasion.
The piece seemed to have a magical quality, as if it were telling the listeners, "Nothing is impossible. As long as you dream and persist, you will achieve it."
This was the first time Shane looked directly at this woman and admitted that she was exceptional.
She wasn't just a pretty face. She knew medicine, could dance, and play the piano too.
If he hadn't heard it himself, he wouldn't have believed that such skilled and exquisite piano playing could come from her.
Soon, the piece ended, and the audience erupted into enthusiastic applause.
Few truly appreciated it.
After all, the piano is a very sophisticated instrument.
A man wearing glasses clapped particularly loudly, seemingly understanding the performance well.
He approached Harrison and asked, "Boss, is the pianist also from your wife's dance studio?"
Harrison replied, "She used to be, but not anymore. She's just helping out today."
The man with glasses then asked, "Does she have a boyfriend?"
Shane's gaze instantly shifted towards them.
The man adjusted his glasses, his expression clearly showing interest in Callie.
Shane's face darkened instantly!Before Harrison could respond, Shane spoke up, "She's already married."
Harrison was taken aback. "President Robinson, are you mistaken? My wife asked her, and she doesn't even have a boyfriend. How could she be married?"
"This young lady is not only beautiful but also plays the piano so well," the man with glasses was clearly impressed.
He stood up and headed backstage, probably to get her contact information and introduce himself.
Shane, being a man himself, knew exactly what the guy was up to. He stood up as well. "I have something to attend to. I'll be leaving now."
Harrison started to protest, "But the event just started..." However, seeing Shane's icy expression, he swallowed his words and said, "I'll see you out."
As they walked out, Shane asked, "Who was that guy with the glasses from your company?"
"He's a technician," Harrison replied. "A top graduate I hired with a high salary from another pharmaceutical company. He's been crucial in our latest research..."
"Enough," Shane cut him off, not in the mood to listen.
Harrison realized he had been overly excited today and had talked too much.
So, he fell silent.
Shane Robinson walked out of the company and called Gabriel to get Callie's contact information.
He got into his car and dialed Callie's number.
Callie had just changed her clothes and was about to leave when a guy with glasses appeared out of nowhere. "Your piano playing is really good."
"Thank you," she replied with a polite smile.
As she walked out, the man followed her. "Are you free today? How about a movie?"
Just then, Callie's phone rang. She answered it.
A deep voice came from the other end, "Stay away from that man. Don't give him your contact information. Don't agree to have a meal with him. Come to the roadside immediately."
Callie was baffled. "???"
What was going on?
She glanced toward the roadside and saw Shane's car.
It was then that she remembered Shane was an investor in Principal Lopez's husband's company.
Of course, he would be here today.
She slapped her forehead. How could she have forgotten that?
"Hurry up!"
The voice on the other end commanded.
"I got it," she replied.
After hanging up the phone, she turned to the man with glasses and said, "Sorry, I have to go now."
With that, she walked briskly towards the car parked by the roadside.
Just as her hand touched the back door handle, Shane spoke up, "Sit in the front."
Reluctantly, Callie moved to the front passenger seat.
As soon as she settled in, Shane spoke, his tone tinged with exasperation.
"Callie, can't you just behave for once?"
Callie frowned, feeling utterly baffled by his words. How was she not behaving? What had she done to provoke him?
"Stop making a fuss over nothing," she said, fastening her seat-belt.
Shane couldn't understand why, but her presence and the way she spoke always managed to irritate him.
Ever since he met this woman, his patience had been tested to its limits!
"From now on, don't tell anyone you're not married." He tried to keep his anger in check.
Callie didn't want to upset him further. After all, she was about to leave, so she might as well leave a good impression.
"Fine, I'll do as you say."
Shane's tightly furrowed brows finally relaxed. Joy was written all over his faces.
The rare moment of peace between Callie and Shane lasted until they returned to the villa.
As the car came to a stop and Callie was about to get out, Shane suddenly grabbed her hand.
Callie's eyes widened in surprise, her long lashes fluttering as she looked at him. "What are you doing?"
Shane had been avoiding her for the past few days, clearly upset with her. It was all because she had asked Gabriel to find him a woman.
But this woman, Callie, seemed completely unaffected.
Her rosy complexion showed she was living quite comfortably.
This woman was simply heartless!
"Callie, can you stop making me angry?"
His voice was low, but every word was clear.
He didn't want to admit his growing affection for her.
But he could no longer control his heart.
Even though he knew she had been with other men, had been pregnant, and had lost the baby...
All sorts of flaws.
But still, he was drawn to her.
Callie asked, "Did I make you angry again?"
She thought to herself, Are you a grumpy old man?
Why do you get angry so easily?
Of course, she only grumbled in her mind.
Outwardly, she responded sweetly, "Okay, I promise I won't make you angry anymore."
She smiled and asked, "Can you let go of me now? I need to get off the car."
Shane lowered his gaze, staring at her lips, which looked soft and inviting. Remembering her confidence and grace while playing the piano, he felt a stir in his heart and leaned in to kiss her.
Callie was stunned.
Realizing what was happening, she immediately tried to push him away. "Let go—"
Shane caught her hands, preventing her from moving, and deepened the kiss, silencing her words.
His hand slid under the hem of her shirt, moving upward...
Shane knew her skin was fair, but only by touching it did he realize how delicate and smooth it was.
It felt like a feather brushing against his heart.
He craved this sensation, a feeling that utterly captivated him.
Callie's eyes widened in shock, her pupils trembling.
What was he doing? No. This couldn't happen.
Given her current physical condition, she absolutely couldn't engage in such activities with a man.
However, today Shane was being even more audacious!
She couldn't break free from his grasp, so she steeled herself and bit down on his lips that were causing chaos on hers!
Shane winced in pain, loosening his grip slightly, giving Callie the chance to push him away.
She glared at him, her eyes blazing with anger, and demanded, "Shane, what do you mean by this? Do you think I'm some woman who casually sleeps with men?"
Shane looked at her, his expression tinged with a hint of confusion. "Aren't you?"
Callie almost raised her hand to slap him, but she held back.
She couldn't, and she didn't dare!
"I'm not. I've been with a man before, but only one. I'm not a woman who casually sleeps with men." At this moment, she was very calm.
If she had been angry and caused a scene, Shane Robinson might have said, "You're my wife. I have every right to do whatever I want with you."
But she remained calm and composed, and all he could do was watch him quietly. "Leave that man."
This time, Shane Robinson's voice was equally calm.
He just wanted her to be his obedient wife.
She was not allowed to have any relationship with any other man, whether it was one or several.
She could only belong to him!
Callie didn't even know what that man looked like or what kind of person he was.
Except for that one night, when had they ever been together?
She answered briskly, "Okay."
The only mark that man left on her was probably this child.
Shane Robinson's expression softened, seemingly satisfied with her answer, and for once, they were getting along.
"Let's go home," Shane said as he opened the car door and stepped out.
Callie was momentarily stunned by his words. She had noticed a slight change in Shane. she quickly lowered her gaze.
She and Shane were from two different worlds.
She didn't dare to have any thoughts. On the surface, she acted nonchalant as she followed him out of the car.
Mrs. Ford was just about to take out the trash when she saw the two of them returning together. She immediately smiled and said, "Sir, Ma'am, you came back together?"
Callie smiled and replied, "We just happened to run into each other."
Mrs. Ford made an understanding sound and tactfully stepped out, leaving the space for them. It was rare to see them so calm around each other.
Callie didn't want to be alone with Shane, especially after noticing some changes in him.
She made an excuse, "I'm tired, I'll head upstairs first."
Shane knew she was avoiding him and deliberately said, "I'm hungry. Make me something to eat."
Callie, "..." Could she say no?
"What would you like to eat?" She forced a smile, her posture humble.
"Anything," he replied.
Callie glanced at him, then went to the kitchen to wash her hands and opened the refrigerator.
The refrigerator at home was well-stocked with all kinds of ingredients.
She picked a dish that was simple to make and one she was good at.
Shane stood in the living room, casually unbuttoning his suit jacket with one hand, but his eyes were fixed on the woman busy in the kitchen.
His parents had passed away early, and he had long forgotten what a home felt like.
Before Callie moved in, only Mrs. Ford took care of the villa. It was usually cold and lifeless. But now, he felt a sense of home.
He took off his coat, casually tossing it onto the sofa, and walked toward the kitchen.
"Callie."
Callie was chopping vegetables. She turned her head and saw the man standing at the doorway. "Wait a moment."
Shane knew the meal wasn't ready yet. He had come to tell her that maybe they should just live like this. But he couldn't bring himself to say it. Pride, after all, was getting in the way.
He silently turned around.
Callie glanced back at him, her eyes briefly showing a flicker of emotion before quickly returning to normal.
Half an hour later, she finished preparing the meal. Simple, homemade dishes. Nothing fancy.
Shane sat down at the dining table and noticed there was only one serving. "Aren't you eating?" Callie replied, "I'm not hungry."
She sat down too, not going upstairs first. Even though she wasn't eating, she stayed with him.
After all, they were technically married, right?
Even if it was just a marriage certificate, nothing else felt like a real marriage. Is this our last supper together?
...
The next morning, they had breakfast together.
Shane said, "I'm heading to the office. I'll drop you off at the hospital on the way."
Callie didn't tell him that she no longer worked at the hospital.
With her head down, she continued eating and replied, "I'm not going to the hospital today."
Shane assumed she was still unwell and didn't press further.
"I can arrange for you to become a full-time doctor at the Second Military District General Hospital..." "No need." She looked up and smiled.
Shane was too kind, and she wasn't used to it. In the past, she would have been incredibly grateful. But now, she didn't need the job anymore.
Shane frowned slightly, sensing something unusual about her behavior. If she had argued with him, he would have thought it was normal.
He squinted his eyes at her for a few seconds, as if he had detected something, but his expression remained unchanged. Calmly, he got up and left the dining table.
Callie continued eating at her own pace. When she heard the door close, she looked up briefly. After finishing her meal, she said to Mrs. Ford, "I'll be going to pick up my clothes later."
"Alright." Mrs. Ford was busy dusting the furniture and responded without turning her head.
She threw away all the things she didn't need before heading out. The driver took her to the dry cleaner.
She asked the dry cleaner to pack her clothes neatly, then took them back to the car and told the driver, "I need to go to the mall."
The driver drove her there.
Holding the clothes, she got back into the car and lied to the driver, "I need to exchange some clothes at the mall. Just wait for me in the parking lot."
The driver nodded.
She walked into the mall with the clothes.
Little did she know, the driver had already dialed Shane's number.
Shane had specifically instructed the driver to keep an eye on Callie.
Today, she was acting too strangely.
Shane's keen senses had picked up on her odd behavior, and he was already on guard!
Once Callie was sure the driver hadn't followed her, she carried the bag of clothes and took the elevator down to the underground parking lot, feeling confident that she could finally escape.
Happily, she placed the items into the prepared car.
This second-hand car was something she had purchased in advance and parked here just for this moment.
Callie had made sure Caitlin left without leaving any traces, and she herself wouldn't use any transportation that required real names or tickets that could be traced.
She had planned her route well in advance, avoiding all cameras, ready to slip away silently. The drive was going smoothly.
Once she got on the highway, her heart finally settled, and she even started humming a tune in excitement.
The car was small and a bit beat-up, but it didn't stop her from driving it smoothly.
She drove along, singing loudly and confidently.
When she reached the toll booth, there was a bit of a traffic jam.
She rolled down the window, resting one hand on the edge, enjoying the breeze as she slowly inched forward.
Suddenly, she noticed something was off. Why were there so many cars blocking the road ahead of the toll booth?
They didn't look like police vehicles. Just then, a man started walking toward her! Her pupils dilated bit by bit!
This man…